1996 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 1981 Mitsubishi Debonair
To start off, 1996 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Mitsubishi Debonair. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Mitsubishi Debonair would be higher. At 3,135 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Chevrolet Malibu (156 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 1981 Mitsubishi Debonair. (111 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1981 Mitsubishi Debonair. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 16 kg more than 1981 Mitsubishi Debonair. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 Mitsubishi Debonair is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1981 Mitsubishi Debonair. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Chevrolet Malibu, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 1996 Chevrolet Malibu (251 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 44 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Mitsubishi Debonair. (207 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1996 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Mitsubishi Debonair.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Chevrolet Malibu | 1981 Mitsubishi Debonair | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mitsubishi |
| Model | Malibu | Debonair |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3135 cc | 2555 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 156 HP | 111 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 251 Nm | 207 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1406 kg | 1390 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4840 mm | 4680 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2750 mm | 2700 mm |
